By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2014 Cherokee High School graduate
and Marlton, New Jersey native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Airman Victor Dejoy is an air traffic controller aboard the
Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy air traffic controller is responsible for the safety
of the aircraft from the moment the engine is turned on until it is turned off.
“I like that the Navy gives me the opportunity to see the world," said Dejoy. "It has also opened up a lot for me in the civilian world. I can go to an airport and do the same job that I am doing here, if I wanted."
Commissioned in 1997, the Wasp-class amphibious assault
ship, USS Bataan, is 844 feet long. The ship is named in honor of the defense
of the Bataan Peninsula during World War II and is the second ship to bear the
name.
Bataan, one of the largest of all amphibious warfare ships,
resembles a small aircraft carrier. It is equipped with a mix of helicopters
and attack aircraft, launchers and machine guns and an extensive medical
facility with 600 hospital beds.
“I have the best job in the entire
world,” says Capt. J.C. Carter, commanding officer of the USS Bataan. “Every day, I get to work the best young
Americans that our country has to offer!
They have endured long deployments and they have engaged the enemy
successfully! It is an honor to serve
alongside the next greatest generation!”
Approximately 70 officers and 1000 enlisted men and women
make up the ship's company. Their jobs are highly specialized and keep each
part of the amphibious assault ship running smoothly. The jobs range from
washing dishes and preparing meals to maintaining engines and handling
weaponry.
“I like the opportunities that are offered on this ship,”
said Dejoy. “They are always reasonable whenever I ask to do something.”
Although it is difficult for most people to imagine living
on a ship, the challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the
crew. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions.
It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon
assets, Dejoy and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that will
be last beyond their lifetimes.
“Since joining the Navy, I have learned to be responsible,”
added Dejoy. “I also feel had I not joined I would not have been as successful.”